After a long offseason, Texans fans were back in the parking lots Sunday as Houston played host to the Buffalo Bills, and for plenty of people, the scene outside Reliant Stadium is every bit as important as what happens on the field.
Charles Randle Jr. said the draw is the way the crowd comes together.
“The craziest thing to me is the way people interact with each other. It’s just a lot of fun.”
Martin Melendez said the tailgates are open and welcoming, even when the visiting team’s supporters show up.
“People are just friendly, fun, and loving the Texans. It doesn’t matter if it’s the away team. People are welcome,” Melendez said.
The food is part of the appeal too, turning game day into something that feels more like a block party than a stadium event.
“The food’s great, and people are very excited to give it to you,” Melendez said. “It’s like walking into somebody’s backyard: ‘Hey, have a bite.’”
For Johnathan Garcia, the tailgate has plenty going on, but a few staples always rise to the top.
“Probably the cornhole, listening to music and chilling with people around you-and spending time with people you rarely get to see, but you see them here tailgating,” Garcia said.
Fans attending the Texans’ official tailgate events need tickets, which are sold separately from parking passes. Tickets for the Sept. 20 game against the Cincinnati Bengals were listed at just under $35.
“I’m just glad it’s back. It’s something to watch,” Melendez said.
Randle Jr. said the best part is seeing the whole fan base take part.
“I like to see everyone involved,” Randle Jr. said.
With nine home games on Houston’s schedule this season, Texans fans will have plenty of chances to keep the tradition rolling.
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